Squamish’s long-awaited affordable housing development, Centrepoint, is slated to open its doors in a year, thanks in part to new government funding.
With a backdrop of construction workers sawing, hammering and carrying lumber Friday morning, provincial and federal government representatives announced $2.8 million in funding for the project on site at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Victoria Street.
“Once the Centrepoint project is complete, families in need of safe, affordable housing will have more options here in Squamish,” said Sea to Sky MLA Jordan Sturdy. “The province is committed to partnering with other levels of government and community organizations across the province to create new affordable housing opportunities that will make a real difference to British Columbians.”
Sea to Sky Member of Parliament Pam Goldsmith-Jones did not attend the morning announcement but sent a video message of the funding that was played at the event.
In addition to the funds in Friday’s announcement, the province provided $9.8 million in construction financing according to the Ministry of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing.
Centrepoint is a partnership between Sea to Sky Community Services, which will manage and operate the building, and the Squamish United Church.
The mixed-use development will include 32 housing units made up of one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. Two of the units will be wheelchair accessible.
“We’re so grateful for the support shown by the provincial and federal governments,” said Lois Wynne, executive director of Sea to Sky Community Services. “Their strong commitment to Centrepoint means that we are able to build more affordable housing than we originally envisioned – 32 apartments now rather than the original eight.”
Other project funders include the District of Squamish, Squamish Savings and the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation.
Adriana Smith of the Squamish Tenants' Information Network was only somewhat heartened by the news of the 32 units coming on line within a year.
“Centrepoint is a great start in terms of affordable housing in Squamish. While one and two-bedroom units will help only very small families, 32 out of more than a thousand is just that – a start,” she said.
“I'm a bit puzzled by the lack of demand of the developers who are making a financial killing here, to provide a certain number of units at affordable rental or even a small mortgage amount. Our community is strengthened by ownership, so making a few units low cost would only empower lower-income residents. Rent-to-own being one option.”
The Centrepoint project is still short about $600,000 of the capital needed to complete the project, according to Sea to Sky Community Services.
For more on Centrepoint, go to www.sscs.ca/capital-campaign.
